Larry Nation, 79, of Killduff, IA, passed away Tuesday, November 5, 2024, at his home surrounded by family.
Lawrence Martin Nation, son of Lawrence J. and Wanda M. (White) Nation, was born October 18, 1945, in Oskaloosa, Iowa. Growing up, Larry lived in Eddyville and attended school in Oskaloosa. He graduated from Oskaloosa High School with the class of 1963 and enlisted in the United States Army immediately after his education. While in the service, he was stationed in Germany as a tank gunner, rising to Lieutenant.
While in the Army, he was awarded good conduct and sharp shooting (rifle) medals. Larry was honorably discharged from the United States Army in 1966 and returned home, settling in Pella. While in Pella, he worked for Vermeer Corporation for one year before starting at Maytag in Newton. On June 26, 1970, Larry married his childhood sweetheart and neighbor girl, Cindy Johnston. The couple lived in Pella and were blessed with their first child, a daughter, Lori. A few years later, they were blessed again with the birth of their son, Eric. The family later moved to Killduff, IA, where they raised their family and lived for the past 50 years. In 1997, Larry retired from Maytag but stayed very busy with home tasks and helping his family.
Larry was an excellent cook. He specialized in goulash and recently enjoyed perfecting his baby-back ribs recipe on his smoker. Larry could build anything. He loved building items from lawn ornaments to furniture for his family. He especially enjoyed building a cedar chest for each granddaughter.
Larry and Cindy enjoyed many wonderful cruises together. He especially enjoyed cruising and visiting Alaska. Larry thought Alaska had terrific views and experiences, from the whales and land wildlife to visiting the Arctic Circle and seeing the oil wells.
He was also an avid hunter and fisherman, enjoying all outdoor activities.
His true love was his family. He would do anything and everything he could to help any of them.
His family includes his wife, Cindy Nation of Killduff, IA; his daughter, Lori (Mark) Newberg of Lynnville, IA; his son, Eric Nation of Baxter, IA; his granddaughters: Kari (Kyle) Etringer, Chelsea Newberg (Robbie Huffaker), Taylor (Brandon) Kolo, and Emily Nation; his great-grandchildren, Lilah and Lincoln; and a nephew Scot Nation.
Larry was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, James and Billie Joe Nation.
The family will greet visitors at an open house celebration of life that will take place on Sunday, November 10, 2024, from 2 – 4 p.m., at their home: 7261 Main Street, Killduff, IA, 50137.
